TTC Gold Brown vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Gold Brown Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Gold Brown switch is praised for its balanced feel, slight tactile bump, and moderate weightiness, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch is tailored for those who prefer subtle, nuanced feedback, with a gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile for a quiet typing experience. While the Gold Brown offers a more traditional tactile feel, the Gold Brown Pro is designed for those who value understated tactile experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and TTC Gold Brown Pro both utilize polycarbonate top housing which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that use RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gold Brown uses nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The sound produced by the nylon bottom housing is described as duller and rounder compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro also features a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile as the Gold Brown. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a sharper and more resonant sound quality. However, the Gold Brown Pro differs in its bottom housing material, which is also made of nylon. The deeper and fuller sound profile elicited by the softer nylon material can be felt when typing on the Gold Brown Pro, giving it a unique sound compared to the Gold Brown with the polycarbonate bottom housing.
In summary, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Gold Brown Pro play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, the Gold Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a different sound compared to the Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the characteristics of each material contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Brown is 63 grams while the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro is not specified. In terms of weight, the Gold Brown is on the heavier side compared to the Gold Brown Pro. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro for a lighter typing experience, while those who prefer a firmer push may opt for the Gold Brown for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on personal preference and the desired level of force required for typing.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Gold Brown Pro has a more shallow travel distance compared to the Gold Brown, making it ideal for those who prefer faster response times such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gold Brown offers a slightly deeper travel distance, which may feel more satisfying for those who prefer a bit more depth when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a tactile feedback, but the Gold Brown Pro provides a slightly quicker keystroke due to its shorter travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Brown offers a balanced and relatively softer sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and users. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience. The Gold Brown Pro's sound profile is more subdued and muted, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced also depends on factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience, striking a good balance between tactile feedback and smooth key travel. The switch is also described as polished, ensuring a refined typing feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch offers a polished and silky typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and minimal resistance during key presses. Its subtle and stepped tactile feedback enhances typing comfort without being overwhelming. Both switches provide a gentle typing experience suitable for most users.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Brown switch delivers a balanced and satisfying tactile bump with a soft sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro switch offers a more nuanced and subtle tactile feedback with a deeper, thocky sound. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, either switch can provide a pleasant and immersive typing experience. Ultimately, both switches share a common trait of offering a tactile experience that is approachable and comfortable for a wide range of users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider the level of tactility and sound profile you prefer. If you value a balanced switch with a moderate tactile bump and weightiness, along with a softer sound profile that is not completely silent, the Gold Brown may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you seek a more subdued and nuanced tactile experience with a gentle tactile bump and a whisper-quiet sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and balanced sound profile (Gold Brown) or a subtle and understated tactile experience with a quieter sound profile (Gold Brown Pro). Choose the switch that aligns the most with your typing preferences and environment.
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